FRANCE – Chemical Plant Fire Triggers Safety Alert for 30,000 Residents

A major fire at a chemical storage facility in France’s Moselle department has prompted authorities to advise nearly 30,000 residents in five nearby municipalities to remain indoors as emergency crews work to contain the incident.

According to Le Figaro, the blaze erupted on the morning of Sunday, August 2, at the SAFE facility operated by Suez in the Gandrange industrial zone. The fire engulfed a 500-square-meter warehouse where chemical substances were stored. The site is classified as a lower-tier Seveso establishment due to the presence of hazardous materials.

As a precaution, the Moselle Prefecture instructed residents of Gandrange, Amnéville, Vitry-sur-Orne, Clouange, and Rombas to stay inside until further notice. Officials advised people to keep windows and doors closed, switch off ventilation systems, avoid unnecessary travel outdoors, and stay away from the affected area.

The incident produced a dense column of black smoke that was visible for several dozen kilometers, stretching from Metz to Thionville. Residents in Amnéville reported breathing difficulties caused by the smoke, prompting hazardous materials specialists to monitor air quality and assess potential health risks.

Around 130 firefighters, supported by numerous fire engines and specialized hazardous materials units, were deployed to tackle the blaze. According to Gandrange Mayor Quentin Bigo, crews have successfully stopped the fire from spreading, although firefighting operations remain ongoing and the situation continues to be closely monitored.

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